Which type of RNA helps decode a messenger RNA sequence into a protein?

The type of RNA that helps decode a messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence into a protein is transfer RNA (tRNA). tRNA serves a critical role in the translation process, where it helps translate the genetic code carried by mRNA into a specific amino acid sequence, forming proteins.

During translation, tRNA molecules recognize and bind to specific codons on the mRNA through their anticodon regions. Each tRNA is linked to a specific amino acid corresponding to the codon it recognizes. By bringing the correct amino acids into alignment according to the mRNA sequence, tRNA facilitates the assembly of the growing polypeptide chain, ultimately leading to the production of proteins.

In contrast, messenger RNA (mRNA) is responsible for carrying the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) forms the core of the ribosome's structure and catalyzes protein synthesis. Small nuclear RNA (snRNA) is involved in the processing of pre-mRNA in eukaryotic cells. Thus, tRNA's unique role in translating the code into proteins distinguishes it as the essential component in the decoding process.